HCV Genotype by Sequencing
| Label Mnemonic: | HCV GEN SEQ |
| Epic code: | LAB8186 |
| Order form: | Laboratory Requisition |
| Supply order: | Supply Order Form |
| Billing: | Billing Policies |
| CPT code: | 87902 |
Specimen(s):
Plasma
Collection Medium:
 | and | |
| Pink top tube 6 mL (K2-EDTA) | Pink top tube 6 mL (K2-EDTA) |
Minimum:
Collect one full Pink top tube (EDTA). If HCV Quantitation is also requested, please obtain a second full Pink top tube. Testing requires a dedicated collection tube. All collection tubes need to be processed within six hours of collection.
Preferred Minimum: 2 mL plasma
Absolute Minimum: 0.5 mL plasma
Preferred Minimum: 2 mL plasma
Absolute Minimum: 0.5 mL plasma
Rejection Criteria:
Heparinized specimens.
Turn Around
Time:
3-5 days upon receipt at reference laboratory.
Reference Range:
By report.
Interpretive Data:
Hepatitis C viral RNA is tested using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to amplify a specific portion of the 5' untranslated region (5' UTR) of the viral genome. The amplified nucleic acid is sequenced bi-directionally using dye-terminator chemistry (ABI). Sequencing data is compared to a database of characterized sequences.
Isolates of hepatitis C virus are grouped into six major genotypes (1-6). These genotypes are subtyped according to sequence characteristics. Due to high conservation of the 5' untranslated region of the HCV genome, this test has limitations in differentiating subtype 1a from 1b. Therefore, these subtypes will be reported as "1a or 1b." In rare instances, Type 6 virus may be misclassified as Type 1.
Isolates of hepatitis C virus are grouped into six major genotypes (1-6). These genotypes are subtyped according to sequence characteristics. Due to high conservation of the 5' untranslated region of the HCV genome, this test has limitations in differentiating subtype 1a from 1b. Therefore, these subtypes will be reported as "1a or 1b." In rare instances, Type 6 virus may be misclassified as Type 1.
Methodology:
Polymerase Chain Reaction/Sequencing
Sample
Processing:
Centrifuge within two hours of draw time.
Label transport tube with two patient identifiers, date and time of collection.
Transfer all of the plasma into a new labeled plastic aliquot tube with a screw cap.
Label transport tube with two patient identifiers, date and time of collection.
Transfer all of the plasma into a new labeled plastic aliquot tube with a screw cap.
Sample
Storage:
Store plasma frozen.
Transport
Instructions:
Place labeled specimen into zip-lock type biohazard bag; seal bag.
Place completed laboratory requisition (or packing list) into outside pocket of bag.
Place dry ice on top of specimen in Styrofoam container to maintain frozen temperature.
Ship frozen.
Place completed laboratory requisition (or packing list) into outside pocket of bag.
Place dry ice on top of specimen in Styrofoam container to maintain frozen temperature.
Ship frozen.
CPT Code:
87902